How a film gets into Wasatch.
From the upload on FilmFreeway to a seat in the Industry Theater, here is what happens to every entry.
From the festival archive. [Photo credit]
Every film we screen starts the same way: an entry on FilmFreeway before the final deadline. What happens next is mostly people watching a lot of films.
1. Every entry gets watched
Our volunteer pre-screening panel watches every submission. They flag the films that should go to the programmers.
2. Programmers build three blocks
The programming team builds the lineup around the festival’s three blocks: Adrenaline Junkies for action sports, MISSe-en-scène for women directors, and Protecting Our Playground for environmental impact. A strong film that doesn’t fit one block neatly still gets placed where it plays best.
3. Filmmakers hear back
Filmmakers are notified by [date]. Selected films are invited to opening night, screen during festival weekend, and compete for the Wasatch awards.
"We look for a real story underneath the adventure."
If you’re weighing whether to enter, read the filmmaker guide first. It covers eligibility, runtimes and what to have ready.
